Established in 2009 by the Joubert family, their winemaking style is inspired by the Mediterranean climate. Their ethos is to create wines that reflect the unique terroir and elements of their remarkable location. In fact, Baleia is the only winery on the Lower Duiwenhoksrivier in Vermaaklikheid in the southern coastal area of the Cape. Baleia is Portuguese for whale and the striking labels are inspired by St. Sebastien Bay, the Whale Nursery of South Africa. The true essence of Baleia is in the soil, consisting largely of pure, solid limestone with a very high mineral content. The climate, defined by their proximity to the sea, creates a particular mouthfeel to the wines with a chalky minerality and maritime salinity. This soil is also home to the very rare Canca fynbos, which is endemic to the South Coast and one of very few fynbos species to flourish in the alkaline environment of limestone outcrops. Baleia’s philosophy is to make wines that are true to the terroir, identifiable by their very specific mineral and maritime character in a blind tasting. Minimal intervention in the cellars ensures that the winemakers do not cloud the natural beauty. In their own words, “when you savour a glass of Baleia, you’ll known the circle is complete.” Jancis Robinson in 2022 gave the Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc 16.5 points each.